‘Wasted’: Sanjay Dutt is ‘angry’ with Lokesh Kanagaraj for his role in Leo
Veteran actor Sanjay Dutt, known for his decades-long career across multiple Indian film industries, recently expressed disappointment over his limited appearance in the Tamil action film Leo. Dutt, who portrayed Antony Das—the father of Thalapathy Vijay’s titular character—felt the director had wasted his potential.
During a recent media interaction in Chennai while promoting his upcoming Kannada film KD – The Devil, Dutt shared his views on his career, collaborators, and recent projects. When asked about his working relationship with Leo director Lokesh Kanagaraj, the Munna Bhai actor gave a light-hearted yet pointed reply. “I am angry at Lokesh because he didn’t give me a big role. He wasted me,” he quipped.
The actor also spoke warmly about some of the biggest icons in South Indian cinema. “I respect Rajinikanth sir and Kamal Haasan sir—they are my seniors. I look up to them and learn from them,” he said. Reflecting on his past collaborations, he recalled working with Rajinikanth in several films and described the superstar as “the most humble person.”
During the interaction, Sanjay was asked about his bond with the likes of Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan. In response, he said, "I respect Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, they are my seniors. I look up to them and learn from them. I have worked with Rajinikanth in multiple movies. He is the most humble person. I also loved working with Thalapathy Vijay."
Touching upon his experience in Leo, he added, “I also loved working with Thalapathy Vijay.” He also mentioned his fondness for other Tamil stars, saying, “I love Ajith sir; I’m a close friend of his. I have watched several Rajini sir's films. I am looking forward to watching Coolie. I will also watch Thug Life for Kamal sir.”
Coolie, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, is one of the most awaited films of the year and stars Rajinikanth in the lead. The ensemble cast includes Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, Reba Monica John, Junior MGR, and Monisha Blessy. The film is slated to hit cinemas on August 14.